The best of Canadian cooking comes to Cebu, Davao

The best of Canadian cuisine took center stage at the Canadian Food and Beverage Festival held at two venues just within days apart: at the newly reopened hotel by the hills, the Marco Polo Plaza Cebu, and the well-known Marco Polo Hotel in Davao.

Guest of honor at the dual launch was Canadian Ambassador Peter Sutherland, a frequent visitor to the southern cities.

The events, which were organized by the embassy’s efficient staff led by Trade Commissioner Assistant Irma Angeles and Public Affairs Officer Carlo Figueroa, proved to be nights of sheer gastronomic delights.

Cebu-based Honorary Consul of Canada Robert Lee and his supportive wife Anna warmly welcomed the invitees.

Canadian executive chef Luke Gagnon of Marco Polo Plaza Cebu expertly combined traditional techniques with contemporary innovations using fresh seasonal ingredients to create exceptional dishes.

Sumptuous starters included deep-water oysters, seafood chowder, and hors d’oeuvres made from Canadian pork and salmon. The food stations served Alberta beef, duck, and Atlantic smoked salmon, while salad dressings were prepared and entrees cooked with one of the healthiest oils on the market, Canola oil from the Canadian prairies.

To cap this culinary experience, a varied selection of desserts using Canadian maple syrup was served.

Meanwhile, the affair in Davao was held at the property’s grand ballroom with local government officials, and the business and civic sectors in attendance. They included Davao City Vice Mayor Louie Bonguyan, Adviser for Mindanao Affairs Paul Dominguez, hoteliers Vincent and Donna Rodriguez, and working socialite Maricar Mascoñana.

Marco Polo Hotel Davao executive chef Ed Tuazon simply outdid himself with an impressive menu, making the event truly one for the senses.

One of the main objectives of the festival was to showcase variations and the environmentally responsible production of food to meet and satisfy consumer demands.

The Canadian agriculture and agri-food sectors are known as one of the most dynamic agricultural industries in the world, featuring cutting-edge research and a well-established regulatory system.

At present, there are nearly 400,000 Canadians of Filipino origin among Canada’s most active citizens, who are deeply involved in the economic, social and cultural activities of the country. Their knowledge, skills, and investment in Canada contribute to its success, and their language, culture, and history add to its rich multicultural fabric.

In addition to these Canadians of Filipino origin, there are an estimated 7,500 Canadians residing here in the Philippines. Many of them are experts and professionals who contribute to the scientific, technological, and administrative development each day in the Philippines.